asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that, owing to the high special charges sought by the E.S.B., the people of Derra, Tubridgemore, Keenagh, Coolaha, Carramore, Barnatra and other townlands are unable to take current; and, if so, if he will arrange that the inhabitants of those backward districts should get a special reduction in those charges.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rural Electrification in Mayo.
11.
Under statute, the fixing of rates and scales of charges for electricity is a matter solely for the E.S.B.
The board have however informed me that these special service charges which have been quoted by them to householders in the townlands mentioned in the Deputy's question are only sufficient with the ordinary fixed charge to yield the minimum acceptable return on the capital which would have to be invested in making the supply available. The board also state that these charges have been calculated in accordance with the standard conditions applicable to rural areas generally and that it would not be possible to allow a reduction in respect of the particular townlands concerned.